The multiple advantages of the railroad make it the ideal mode of transport for health emergencies, such as today. In a single unit, companies like Transfesa Logistics are capable of moving 33 containers, with some 660 net tonnes of food, on national routes.
Freight transport by rail has taken on a special role in the current state of alarm and confinement to combat COVID-19. This mode of transport has become an essential way to mobilise basic necessities and protective equipment for the population (food items, medicines, protective material, beds and equipment for both hospitals and field hospitals, etc.).
The numerous advantages like volume, safety, and efficiency make it a highly suitable option when faced with the demands of large freight in a quick and secure way. In a single unit, companies like Transfesa Logistics are capable of moving 33 containers, with some 660 net tonnes of food, on national routes.
With this type of shipment, more than 30 trucks are eliminated from the road to make trips within Spain. In addition to this, these vehicles are used at the origin and destination in order to remove the shipped material. In this way, these drivers can sleep at home, minimise driving time and also respect the state of alarm.
In this exceptional context, the reliability of the forecasts and arrival times also increases. In normal conditions, the rate of hourly train punctuality is at 96%. Punctuality is currently around 100%, due to the decrease in passenger traffic, since only 50% of the high-speed trains and only a few commuter trains circulate. The tracks are less congested and freight trains can use the route exclusively, which facilitates their circulation.
Regarding international traffic, the railway is also a very suitable alternative during public health emergency situations. In rail connexions between different countries, an added value is its efficiency in terms of time and human resources. Since you only need one train driver versus the forty trucks that would be necessary to transport the same merchandise, the resources and procedures associated with these operations are reduced.
To all this, we must add additional benefits such as sustainability, since it is the most environmentally friendly mode of transport. Rail transport emits nine times less CO2 than road transport.
